Why LinkedIn recommendations are important and how to provide one if requested
LinkedIn recommendations are an excellent way to build your credibility with people both inside and outside of your network.
Simply put, they serve as an excellent source of social proof.
Others are much more likely to believe in what you have to offer if someone else puts their reputation on the line to speak highly of you.
If you’re giving a recommendation, your words also reflect on you – especially if you were someone’s leader.
Read on to learn how to ask for and provide recommendations on LinkedIn!
How do I request LinkedIn recommendations?
Before you request a LinkedIn recommendation, we recommend reaching out to the person directly to ask.
Whether it’s through an email, phone call, or direct message, it’s always a good idea to give your connection a heads up.
By doing so, you can gauge their reaction and willingness to do so.
They’ll also be more likely to follow through on your request.
Once you’re ready and your connection approves, you can formally request your LinkedIn recommendation by following the steps outlined at this link.
How do I write a LinkedIn recommendation for someone?
If someone asks you for a LinkedIn recommendation, we encourage you to take time to craft a personalized, thoughtful note.
Your recommendation doesn’t have to be long, but it should be specific.
When thinking about what to write in a LinkedIn recommendation, consider using the following structure:
1) A brief comment explaining how you worked together
By explaining where you worked with someone and how, you’ll provide readers with the information they need to put your recommendation into context.
Were you someone’s direct report? Boss? Investor?
Your readers want to know who the recommendation is coming from.
2) Explain what you admired or enjoyed about working with the person
Tell your readers what made your connection a great employee or boss, for example.
Were they well-organized? Detail-oriented? Persistent and always delivered?
3) Provide a concrete example of how they demonstrated the attribute you mentioned
To show readers how your connection was well-organized or dependable instead of simply telling them, share an example from a time that you worked together.
This element of your recommendation is arguably the most important, as it paints a picture for readers and provides hard evidence for the statements you are making.
It will also help your words stand out from all of the generic recommendations you likely already come across on LinkedIn.
4) Close it off, keeping your reader’s intention in mind
Close your recommendation by saying you’re happy to recommend the person and explaining what would make them an asset for their future employer or client.
Take a moment to think about the decision your readers are looking to make.
If you’re writing a recommendation for a freelancer, for example, they’re likely looking to get hired for a project. Why would you hire them again?
If you’re writing a recommendation for a former employee, why should someone want to have them on their team?
In Summary
By taking the time to request a LinkedIn recommendation or write one for others, you'll build your credibility and reputation long-term.
Worth the time?
We think so.
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About the AuthorMatt Glodz
Matt Glodz is the Founder and Managing Partner of Resume Pilots and a Certified Professional Resume Writer.
After studying business communication at Cornell University, Matt worked within Fortune 500 companies, where he noted that qualified candidates were frequently denied interview opportunities due to poorly written documents.
At Resume Pilots, Matt combines his business and writing background - which includes prior work for a Chicago Tribune publication - to craft resumes that give his clients the best chance of landing interviews. He works with clients ranging from CEOs to recent graduates and has been writing resumes for over eight years.